Crowd-sourced and “write for hire” content models focus fundamentally on filling content holes on the cheap. I’d rather see publishers developing more agile content models that support their ability to “write once, read many”, deploying news and information in a variety of ways across multiple media platforms.

Content farms can work, and firms like Demand Media and Associated Content can and probably do make money commissioning content to fill holes. Still, their solution feels temporary, or perhaps barren.

In the 1930s, planting the same crops year after year, without a longer-term view, undermined a great resource and helped turned real farms in dust bowls. I’d hate to see the same thing happen to content.

About Brian O'Leary

Founder and principal of Magellan Media Consulting, Brian O’Leary helps enterprises with media and publishing components capitalize on the power of content. A veteran of more than 30 years in the publishing industry and a prolific content producer himself, Brian leverages the breadth and depth of his experience to deliver innovative content solutions. View all posts by Brian O'Leary →